Over his decades-long career, Tom Hanks movies are as loved as actor himself, but a few stand out as classics. Tom Hanks started known primarily as a comedic actor, but over time, he evolved into a multi-faceted dramatic actor, showing impressive range and depth.
Tom Hanks’ Transition to Leading Man Status in Big and Other 1980s Hits
Big was your breakout role that shot you into leading man status. In 1988, you starred as a boy whose wish to become “big” is magically granted. Tom Hanks movies has always been praised by critics and audiences alike, proving you had the charisma and comedic chops to carry a film. Big established you as a box office draw and opened the door to many more starring vehicles in the coming years.
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Other hits of the era cemented your new status. The Burbs (1989) and Turner & Hooch (1989) showcased your knack for comedy and chemistry with canine co-stars. Sleepless in Seattle (1993) and You’ve Got Mail (1998) made you the king of romantic comedies, pairing you with Meg Ryan twice to major success. Philadelphia (1993) and Forrest Gump (1994) netted back-to-back Best Actor Oscars, proving you were as adept with drama as with comedy.
In the late ’80s and ’90s, you leaped from TV funnyman to one of Hollywood’s most sought-after and versatile leading men. Your relatable charm, humor, and emotional depth connected with viewers worldwide. You chose films that inspired and uplifted audiences, focusing on life’s simple pleasures and relationships. This aspirational quality is a hallmark of your success and why generations have grown up with your movies. Through it all, you remained the approachable everyman, America’s dad, and one of the most beloved actors of your time.
Tom Hanks’ Evolution Into a Multi-Faceted Dramatic Actor
In the 80s, Hanks starred in a string of hit comedies, from Big to Splash to The Burbs. Audiences loved his boyish charm and comedic timing. But Hanks had bigger ambitions. He founded Playtone, a production company, to gain more creative control.
In 1993, Hanks took on his first truly dramatic role in Philadelphia as a lawyer fired for having AIDS. His moving, nuanced performance earned him his first Oscar. Next was Forrest Gump, which blended comedy and drama. Hanks won back-to-back Best Actor Oscars, cementing his status as a dramatic force.
Hanks chose complex, emotional roles in films like Saving Private Ryan, Cast Away, Road to Perdition, and Catch Me If You Can. He explored thought-provoking historical topics in films such as Apollo 13.
Top 5 Tom Hanks Movies To Watch
- Forrest Gump (1994)
This film skyrocketed Hanks to A-list status. He plays the title role of Forrest Gump, a slow-witted but kind-hearted man who witnesses and influences some of the most important events of the latter 20th century in the U.S. It’s a funny, poignant, and utterly charming film that won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
- Saving Private Ryan (1998)
In this acclaimed war film, Hanks leads a squad during World War II’s Normandy invasion to find paratrooper Private James Ryan and return him home safely. Known for its intense and realistic portrayal of the Omaha Beach assault during D-Day, Saving Private Ryan is a moving tribute to the heroism of American soldiers. Hanks delivers a stoic and affecting performance as Captain John Miller.
- Apollo 13 (1995)
Based on the failed 1970 Apollo 13 lunar mission, this film depicts the harrowing ordeal of Jim Lovell (played by Hanks) and his crew as they fight to return home safely. Hanks leads a stellar ensemble cast in this edge-of-your-seat thriller from director Ron Howard.
- Catch Me If You Can (2002)
One of Hanks’ most amusing roles was as FBI agent Carl Hanratty, who chases con man Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio) around the globe. This stylish caper film from Steven Spielberg is based on the true story of one of the most successful con men in history. Hanks and DiCaprio have wonderful comedic chemistry, resulting in a highly entertaining cat-and-mouse chase.
- The Da Vinci Code (2006)
In this mystery thriller based on the bestselling novel, Hanks plays Professor Robert Langdon, who races to solve a bizarre murder in the Louvre museum in Paris. The Da Vinci Code was an international blockbuster, earning over $750 million at the worldwide box office. While the film received mixed reviews, Hanks delivers a solid performance as the quick-witted Langdon. The puzzle-filled story will keep you guessing until the end.
His evolution into a multi-faceted actor and filmmaker has cemented his status as an American icon and one of the most beloved actors of his generation. Follow flixtor for more!